Lunar GN&C Engineer: Real-Time Flight Software & Autonomy

Socket.dev; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Craig Technologies is seeking a Guidance, Navigation, and Controls (GN&C) Engineer to join our team in Houston, TX or Merritt Island, FL. You will contribute to the GN&C system design, development, testing, and autonomous validation for the Lunar Data Network spacecraft.

The role emphasizes real-time GN&C flight software, 6-DOF simulations, HWIL/SWIL integration, and close collaboration with cross-functional teams. A strong background in C/C++, EKF state estimation, and GN&C hardware is required.

Qualifications

• BS or MS in aerospace/electrical engineering or related field with 3–5 years of experience.
• Experience writing flight or simulation software in C/C++ (and Python).
• Familiarity with EKFs or sequential filters for spacecraft state estimation.
• Knowledge of GN&C hardware (IMUs, Star Trackers, Reaction Wheels, Thrusters).
• Experience with HWIL/SWIL testbeds and agile development.

Responsibilities

• Design, architecture development, and verification testing for GN&C systems of LDN spacecraft.
• Develop and test GN&C flight software and control algorithms in C/C++.
• Support integration of GN&C sensors and effectors.
• Run 6-DOF simulations and Monte Carlo analyses for on-orbit performance.
• Collaborate with software, hardware, and mission operations teams.
• Document architectures, trades, and simulation results.

Skills

C/C++ flight software

GN&C algorithms

State estimation (EKF)

Python scripting

Strong communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Aerospace/Electrical Engineering

Tools

JIRA

Git

HWIL/SWIL testbeds

Job description

Craig Technologies is seeking a Guidance, Navigation, and Controls (GN&C) Engineer to join our team in Houston, TX or Merritt Island, FL. You will contribute to the GN&C system design, development, testing, and autonomous validation for the Lunar Data Network spacecraft.

The role emphasizes real-time GN&C flight software, 6-DOF simulations, HWIL/SWIL integration, and close collaboration with cross-functional teams. A strong background in C/C++, EKF state estimation, and GN&C hardware is required.